Overview
- Ireland fell 24-13 to South Africa at the Aviva Stadium in a match with five cards, including a 20-minute red for James Ryan, leaving the hosts down to 12 men at one stage.
- Andy Farrell rejected a reporter's description of the first half as "shambolic," labeling the game "chaotic" and saying he was proud of his players' fight.
- The head coach highlighted the value of the experience for less‑capped players, namechecking Paddy McCarthy, Cian Prendergast, Nick Timoney and Tommy O’Brien.
- Farrell acknowledged a penalty try and two yellow cards conceded at the scrum but maintained Ireland's scrum is generally a long‑term strength.
- With the autumn window over, Farrell set the focus on returning to provincial rugby and preparing for a Six Nations opener away to France on 5 February.